President of the LDS Church, Thomas Monson, Passes

Thomas S. Monson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away on January 2, 2018. President Monson was 90 years old at the time of his death. He served as LDS church president since February of 2008 and was the successor of President Gordon B Hinckley, who passed away on January 27, of that same year.

The LDS Church has 16 million members worldwide, and President Monson was beloved by many. According to a news release from the Church, “While he served in important Church leadership positions throughout his life, he also ministered quietly to thousands of individuals in homes, hospitals and care centers. ‘Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved,’ President Monson taught.”

The news of President Monson’s passing prompted kind sentiments from around the world and from all walks of life. His death prompted a message from United States President Donald Trump, “Melania and I are deeply saddened by the death of Thomas S. Monson, a beloved President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While serving for over half a century under the leadership of his church, President Monson demonstrated wisdom, inspired leadership, and great compassion. Considered a prophet by the nearly 16 million members of the LDS Church, his message was one of optimism, forgiveness, and faith. Our thoughts and prayers are with his three children and the rest of the Monson Family.” The death of President Monson comes shortly after the first official visit of the POTUS.

Many others expressed their thoughts on his passing including many dignitaries and faith leaders. He was known for his personal approach to people. According to President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Counselor to the First Presidency, “He’s really the one who’s concerned about the rescue of the one. He is one who walked through the world looking for opportunities where he could serve individuals.”